Nomadlozi says Education is her freedom
“I would like you to change your mind and I humbly ask you to laugh with us for a change.
SECUNDA – Nomadlozi Precious Madonsela (18), a former pupil from eMzinoni High School’s, dream of studying journalism has come true.
She was awarded a bursary of R27 000 by a local businessman, Mr Fanyana Sibanyoni, on Tuesday, 21 January at the Govan Mbeki Municipal Council Chambers.
This was in fulfilment of a promise made by Mr Sibanyoni in 2011 after Nomadlozi had recited a poem, paying tribute to the executive mayor, Ms Lindi Masina.
“I was just expressing my gratitude to the mayor, but little did I know that the poem would work miracles for me.
“I was so shocked by the way people were moved by my poetry, including Mr Sibanyoni, who stood there and promised to pay for my studies when I complete my matric.
“I told myself that I won’t let these people who believe in me down and I put in more effort in my studies,” said Nomadlozi.
She passed Grade 12 and got level 6 in English, history and life orientation, level 5 in tourism and Zulu, level 4 in geography and level 3 in maths literacy.
She said, “It was not easy at all, but I thank God that I have made it.
“I had to give up so many things, such as my beauty sleep, cell phone and visiting my friends just to invest more in my studies.
“I believe success does not just fall into your lap, but comes by means of determination, believing in yourself, hard work and focus.”
Nomadlozi likes reading spiritual books which keeps her grounded and sharpens her faith in God, she is also a fan of romantic books.
She is inspired by the late former president of South Africa, Mr Nelson Mandela, and has been reading his book Long Walk to Freedom since she was 13.
“I was not only inspired by the Madiba’s political history, but also by him going against all odds in life to become what he always dreamt to be.
“Madiba said education is the key to the future and I take it further and say education is my freedom.
“I want to encourage my peers to take education serious and to make use of the opportunities given to us by the government.”
Nomadlozi will begin her journalism classes at the Midrand Graduate Institute.
Ms Masina congratulated Nomadlozi and expressed her gratefulness to Mr Sibanyoni.
“Thank you for fulfilling your promise to this young girl and to work with us in making people’ lives better.
“We ask other business people to join the struggle of making a better life for all, especially children.
“I encourage pupils to double their efforts in school as Nomadlozi did, she did not go to Mr Sibanyoni, but her work attracted him.”
